Repotting Coelogyne nitida

[FloraStar]

I recently purchased a Coelogyne nitida at an orchid show, from the instant auction/freebie table. There are actually 3 small divisions in the pot, all have 3 or more psbulbs, 2 have leaves. They are young and/or pitiful. Can I repot them even though there is no new growth evident or should I wait until they show signs of life? I have read that Coelogyne resent being repotted but they are so pitiful already, I thought maybe it wouldn't matter.

I'm also considering potting each section differently--basket, pot, mount--as an experiment. Any advice on what works best for these guys would be greatly appreciated! This is my first plant in this species so I'm operating in the dark.

[ksriramkumar]

I have one mounted and seem to be liking it. my suggestion is to mount it.

[Carolla]

I am not familiar with Coelogyne, but orchids in general can do very badly if repotted when they aren't growing. It's a judgment call, but if the media is fresh and they were just put up, I would consider leaving them alone to settle in. I've repotted sad small Cattleyas and pretty well lost every one that wasn't actively growing for example. Roots grow adjusted to the media they grow into and can't readjust into a new and different media, so tend to slowly die off. If you have no new roots coming, that can be the end of a small plant without enough reserves. My personal thought is to err on the side of patience and caution, but if the media is bad then you might as well go for it.

[FloraStar]

My personal thought is to err on the side of patience and caution . . . .

That is what I thought but didn't want to hear. I will exercise the little bit of self discipline I have and leave it alone until I see some signs of life. Thanks to you both, Carolla and ksriramkumar, for your advice!

[FloraStar]

I am happy to report a new growth! It is just a little bump at this point, but it is a relief to see that there is still life in the original pseudobulbs.

[78Terp]

I may be buying my 2nd Coelogyne tomorrow, if it is still available. My repot of my Coelogyne was successful and the 2nd round of new growth is just starting. It flowered for the 2nd time since I have had it. That was on the first round of new growth. It grew much faster after the new growth started.